I have a colleague who has just returned from maternity leave to hear that she has to attend an immediate disciplinary hearing for gross misconduct because she is alleged to have made subordinates cry and has allegedly been heard to use expletives.

It is interesting that these allegations have been brought by subordinates, possibly to the manager who is covering for my colleague whilst on leave, who has also made it known that she would like to remain in my colleague role.

I know that this question goes beyond any simple advice, however, as you can understand I would like to direct said colleague to path of defence to protect her reputation and career.

Christopher Harris